Sweet Nothings-Janis Thomas

In Pelican Point, forty-seven years old Walter Miller explains to his stunned wife of eighteen years forty-four years old Ruby that he wants to be with fortyish Cheryl from accounting. He not only dumps her and their two children (Kevin and Colleen), Walter announces his plans on Facebook to sail away with his new woman.

A stunned Ruby is left explaining to their kids, other family members and neighbors what happened though she cannot understand why her husband was so unhappy with his family. She worries about her Muffin Top Bakery failing and paying the mortgage while Walter continues to live the irresponsible “good life” that he highlights on Facebook. Ruby begins to come out of her middle age comfort pie shell by teaching a baking class while dealing with her malicious “friends” holding her culpable for her failed marriage. On the other hand mortgage broker widower Jacob Salt offers a fresh start with her new baking credo that life begins at forty-four.

Sweet Nothings is a warm second at life (and love) middle age contemporary. The protagonist is super with her when hurt, bake credo and her use of food references as metaphors; while the cast especially her former circle adds amusing finger pointing satirical commentary. Although Walter’s middle age crisis subplot goes as expected, readers will appreciate this enjoyable tale that should carry a warning label sprinkled with scrumptious desserts.